Split decision

In the run-up to Election Day there was a lot of discussion among candidates, elected officials, journalists, and analysts of the likelihood of a “blue wave” that was predicted to overwhelm the nation and deliver control of both chambers of Congress to the Democrats. In the United States, the process of recruiting candidates for political office is mostly one of self-selection. The label of “Year of the Woman 2.0" stems from the record-breaking number of female candidates who ran for office. Democrats fielded candidates with other characteristics that traditionally define a quality candidate. While political parties engage in some level of candidate recruitment, the final decision rests with the would-be candidate. The 2018 election was the most expensive midterm in history, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, and included the most money ever spent on congressional contests at over $5.7 billion.